Precision GPS driven utility asset management and utility damage prevention system and method

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus, including software, for the development and operational use of precise utility location and utility asset management information. Field-usable data sets may be produced that meet standards of accuracy and usability that are sufficient for use by field operations personnel participating in damage prevention activities associated with ground penetrating projects (e.g., excavating, trenching, boring, driving, and tunneling) or other asset applications. Some embodiments relate to integrating utility asset data including coordinate location, and geographical information data using a consistently available and accurate coordinates reference for collecting the data and for aligning the geographical information data. Some embodiments relate to managing projects with equipment that provides real time images and the updating of the data as required with this desired accuracy.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/589,307, filed Jul. 20, 2004, the disclosure of whichis hereby incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates to a system and method for the development andoperational use of precise utility location information and utilityasset management information.

BACKGROUND

There are many assets above ground and below ground that need to beprotected and avoided. Included in these assets are utility lines andcomponents and protected areas, such as archeological sites and habitatof endangered species. There are millions of miles of utility linesaround the world, some buried and some above ground. These utility linesinclude, without limitation, electric power lines, telephone lines,water lines, sewer lines, fiber-optic cable lines, natural gastransmission lines, natural gas distribution lines, and utility linesfor transporting hazardous liquids.

Every year incidents occur in which mobile ground breaking equipmentcomes in contact with utility lines with costly results in loss of lifeand/or loss of money. Statistics kept by the United States Office ofPipeline Safety regarding pipelines indicate that between 1986 and 2001there were 1286 incidents involving natural gas transmission lines,which killed 58 people, injured 217 people and caused 284 billiondollars in property damage. In that same period there were 2159incidents involving natural gas distribution lines, which killed 282people, injured 1264 people and caused 256 billion dollars in propertydamage. There were also 3034 incidents involving utility lines carryinghazardous liquids which killed 36 people, injured 244 people and causeda further 731 billion dollars in property damage. In order to understandthe full impact of such incidents, one would have to also includeenvironmental damage and economic loss as a result of a servicedisruption.

There have been many attempts to address damage prevention whengroundbreaking equipment is used around utilities and other assets thatneed protection. Non-exhaustive examples of these attempts includemarking the location of a utility by painted lines. Commonly in thepast, the utility companies and/or service companies are called to thesite to place marks (spray the ground with an identifying color; forexample, red for electric lines, yellow for gas lines and so forth) onthe surface to show the location of a specific utility line and/or itscomponents. Such marking is not permanent and typically lasts only forthe one earth moving operation, such as digging a trench, for which theutilities were marked.

Another approach was to make a record of the location of the utilitylines as the line was placed in the earth. However, the accuracy of thelocation is dictated by the accuracy of the reference point. It has beenfound that attempting to locate a utility line based op this record hasresulted in an error of up to 15 feet or more because of the inaccuracyin the position of the reference point.

Another approach is to use the record of the location of a facility,with its inherent error from inaccurate reference points, as the recordto compare to the location of a piece of ground breaking equipment. Thisapproach is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,282,477 issued on Aug. 28, 2001to Adam J. Gudat, et al., the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein. As noted in the Gudat et al patent at Col. 5, lines39-50, there is a region of uncertainty that is a function of at leastone parameter, including, but not limited to, inherent errors in theposition determining system and errors in the determined location of theobject (utility).

The determined location of the utility may be acquired by undergroundimaging, which is commonly accomplished by the use of ground penetratingradar. Examples of underground imaging are set forth in U.S. Pat. No.6,766,253 issued Jul. 20, 2004; U.S. Pat. No. 6,735,888 issued May 18,2004; U.S. Pat. No. 6,700,526 issued Mar. 2, 2004; and U.S. Pat. No.6,388,629 issued May 14, 2004, the disclosure of each of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein.

A common way of referencing the generated data identifying location ofthe utility is to use a fixed object, such as the curbing of a road. Anexample of the use of ground penetrating radar to acquire location datafor underground utilities is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,553, thedisclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

SUMMARY

The invention relates to management of utility assets. For convenience,an embodiment of a system constructed or a method practiced according tothe invention may be referred to herein simply as an “embodiment.”

Some embodiments generate or produce highly accurate informationproducts and applications for field use for Utility Asset Management orUtility Damage Prevention. Some embodiments produce an informationproduct, called a Precision Integration (PI) Grid that is comprised of(above or below ground) utility location data combined with a GISLandbase that includes satellite and/or other imagery and mappinginformation. In some embodiments the PI Grid advantageously provides theutility location data accurate to within 10 centimeters, without usingreal-time kinetics (RTK), and within millimeter accuracy using RTK. Someembodiments also provide for the accurate recall of the informationbased on the generation of data using precision GPS technologies thatprovide absolute, as opposed to relative, position data. Here, precisionGPS refers to a GPS system that may provide position information withaccuracy as set forth herein for PI. Utility location information may berecalled anywhere, anytime in the world with the above mentionedaccuracy.

Utility data may be accurately located and captured or collected by adata logging application using precision GPS technologies. The resultantdata, as a PI Grid, may be used in a damage prevention (damageavoidance) application by a Damage Prevention Module which warns usersof the proximity of above or below ground utilities in order to avoiddamage due to conflict.

Some embodiments are comprised of component technologies, processes andmethods that generate Information Products and provide for theproductive use in the field and certify its accuracy and applicabilityfor use on Projects that require Utility Asset Management or DamagePrevention tasks. Some embodiments provide data, tools and processes ofsufficient accuracy and field operations utility that a Utility DamageProject Manager may rely on them to avoid damage to utilities due toground breaking activities or for other Utility Asset Management tasks.

Some embodiments may be used for all phases of underground utilitymanagement, from initial planning and engineering, through constructionand life-cycle maintenance. Some embodiments substantially reduce theneed for redundant field measurements caused by questionable or lostmarkers; and through improved information displays, there may be asignificant reduction in the risks associated with constructionactivities close to existing utilities.

Precision and Usability of Information Products

Some embodiments produce Information Products and Field Applicationsthat meet the highest standards of accuracy and usability in the field.Some embodiments develop information products and field applicationsthat may be used for Utility Damage Prevention, a task that may requirethe highest level of accuracy, reliability and currency of information.Some embodiments provide data and field applications that warn a groundbreaking project of the location of above or below ground utilities.Striking or breaking a Utility can be of such consequence that tools andmethods associated with this task must be of the highest reliability.

Some embodiments generate enhanced utility location data sets that meetusage criteria that are set by project managers responsible for utilityasset management and/or damage prevention on a project.

In some embodiments an important component of the development oflocation data with the aforementioned accuracy and recall is PrecisionIntegration (PI). In some embodiments PI is a methodology and processand technology used to assure that data points at each step of theinformation product development are captured using precision GPS andintegrated into the information product in a manner that produces dataof the accuracy previously described.

In some embodiments Precision Integration (PI) involves the use of anX,Y coordinate, and sometimes also a Z coordinate (e.g., altitude ordepth), signal having a horizontal (X,Y coordinate) accuracy within 10Centimeters (within 4 inches) without RTK and millimeter accuracy withRTK and vertical (Z coordinate) accuracy within 15 centimeters withoutRTK. This accuracy may be provided in collecting utility location dataand in creating a GIS database, called a PI Landbase, that are combinedin various steps of the system to provide a PI Grid. In some embodimentsPI also involves the use of the accurate signal in creating a movablemap that is displayed to show the accurate position of the data loggeror other data collection or data usage device and the user in relationto the PI Landbase. The accurate signal that is used provides consistentaccuracy throughout its life cycle of use (e.g., a life cycle of aproject).

In some embodiments a project manager may set forth and documentaccuracy, completeness, currency and utility type visibility criteriaand requirements for the data sets to be used for the specific project.For example, a project may require a SUE engineering A Standard forlocating underground utilities. A data set may thus be created thatmeets the criteria set by the project manager. The completed data setmay be designated a PI Grid when it meets the project usage criteria setby the project manager.

PI Grid Criteria for Field Use in Damage Prevention

In some embodiments a PI Grid is used by project managers for UtilityAsset Management and Utility Damage Prevention. Data integrityrequirements differ from project to project. The PI Grid may be designedto support the highest level data integrity requirement, that is, damageprevention. By supporting the highest level of data integrityrequirement, value added services may be provided for the remainder ofUtility Asset Management projects that have lesser standards for dataintegrity. In most damage prevention scenarios, there is a requirementto use ground breaking equipment in areas where conflict with utilitiesis probable. In some embodiments, for utility location data to beuseable for damage prevention in the field, the data meets the criteriathat follow.

Precision Recall (Recall). Utility information is accurately recallable.PI Grid location source data is created using precision GPS, providingabsolute rather than relative positioning and location of points. Datathat is recalled, even years after it is collected is precisely correctin its location. A project manager that utilizes PI Grid data may beassured that a utility is ‘where the map says it is’, years after thedata was collected. This capability may vastly improve the locating,planning, engineering, construction, maintenance and management ofunderground assets.

Utility Information is Precise and Accurate (Precise). Utility locationinformation may be within ten centimeters without RTK and withinmillimeters when using RTK. Precision location may be defined as beingwithin ten centimeters without RTK and within millimeters when usingRTK. A precision GPS system that may provide the accurate coordinatereference signal is manufactured by NavCom Technologies, Inc. Thissystem is the StarFire™ Differential Global Positioning System.Absolute, anytime, anywhere is a feature of StarFire™ DGPS.

Field-actionable data. Information provided may meet standards ofaccuracy, currency, completeness, accessibility and usability that allowfor its operational use in utility location and damage prevention in thefield. The Data Logger and the Damage Prevention Module may utilize RTIand may provide real time visual location in the context of a projectarea map enhanced with photo imagery of the project area. During utilitydata gathering the data collector can see where he is on the map, andverify the locations that he is taking against identifiable landmarks(e.g., as seen and as represented on the display). During damageprevention usage real time visual location and utility ‘closeness’warning feedback may be provided to an individual or to equipment onwhich the module is placed. Thus, some embodiments may provide a levelof visibility and human interaction that has not been provided inconventional systems.

Real Time Imagery (RTI). Utility information may be viewable inreference to imagery of the related or project area, in real timeproviding the current position of equipment or personnel relative to thelocation of utilities and may be viewable as the person or machine movesin any direction.

The PI Grid and Real Time Imagery (RTI)

In some embodiment a data set is developed which, after meeting projectcriteria, is designated or certified as a PI Grid. The PI Griddesignation or Certification may be significant in that it may indicateto the project manager that the PI Grid meets project criteria for theuse of the data in damage prevention or other utility asset managementapplications. The PI Grid may be presented to the user, via a computerscreen, or a display as a sophisticated, intuitive, project area mapthat provides utility location information superimposed on imagery ofthe project area (e.g., a visual representation of an overhead view andother indicia). The PI Grid may be presented as a movable map thatdirectionally turns with the movement of the person or equipment towhich the computer is attached or carried. For example, as the computeris moved (changes position) or turns (changes direction) the displayedimage may change accordingly (e.g., keeping the computer in the middleof the project area and orientating the project area so that it “faces”the same direction as the person or equipment). This presentation methodand technology may be referred to herein as Real Time Imagery (RTI). Asa user walks or rides around a project area the PI Grid, presented inRTI, may move and indicate the location of the user (e.g., via a visualrepresentation) within the project area, while simultaneously showingthe location of utilities (e.g., via a visual representation) withinuser defined utility location buffer areas. The capability of presentingPI Grid data in this useable, real time mode provides project managerswith real time utility location data that is accurate and actionable perthe operational requirements of the project manager.

Real Time Imagery (RTI) and Data Integrity

Some embodiments utilize RTI in several steps of the data developmentprocess culminating in the certification of the PI Grid. The use of RTIin data development may provide a significant advantage as compared totraditional GIS/GPS data development and collection methods that are, ineffect, ‘blind’ in their ability to validate data in the field. In someembodiments the Data Logger (DL) utilizes RTI as a major component ofits data collection application. RTI may be used to present the projectarea including aerial imagery for location ‘sanity checks’ and show thelocation of the user as he or she moves around the project area. RTI mayshow, in real-time, data points that are collected and Symbology andother meta-data attributes that may be associated with collected data.RTI may provide real-time feedback, and validation, and by facilitating‘eyes on the ground validation’ may significantly increase dataaccuracy. Using RTI, data collectors may validate ‘where they are’ in aproject area and validate that the data they are collecting is the‘correct data’.

The use of RTI may be particularly advantageous for damage prevention.The Damage Prevention Module (DPM) may utilize RTI to provide real-timeutility location data to operators of ground penetrating equipment toavoid damaging utilities. The DPM may provide sophisticated targetingand ‘lock on’ capabilities that utilize user defined buffers to warnequipment operators of utilities that could be damaged by groundbreaking activities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention will be more fully understood when considered with respect tothe following detailed description, appended claims and accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a chart listing one embodiment of major components of a systemconstructed in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram illustrating one embodiment of atop level life cycle process flow of information and services, inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 3 is a simplified flow chart setting forth one embodiment oflogical steps performed by NTR software module functionality in supportof Damage Prevention, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 4 is a simplified flow chart illustrating one embodiment ofcomponents and logical flow of functionality of the field application ofthe Data Logger Field, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 5 is a simplified flow chart illustrating one embodiment ofcomponents and logical flow of functionality of the field application ofthe UI Imaging functionality, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 6 is a simplified flow chart illustrating one embodiment ofcomponents and logical flow of the field application of the DamagePrevention module, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 7 is a simplified flow chart illustrating one embodiment ofcomponents and logical flow of functionality of the field application ofthe Transponder Logger, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 8 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of datamanagement and data synchronization of EMDS information product flow, inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 9 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of arelationship between the Certification Process and major life cyclesteps, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 10 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of toplevel development and information usage flow for Information Products,in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 11 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of datacollection, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 12 is a simplified schematic block diagram of one embodiment ofdata manipulation, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 13 is a simplified schematic block diagram of one embodiment ofdata usage, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 14 is a simplified flow diagram of one embodiment of NTR, inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 15 is a simplified perspective view of one embodiment of systemcomponents used in a method of dynamically tracking a location of one ormore selected utilities as a movement occurs within a municipal servicearea, in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 16 is a simplified first detailed front elevation view of oneembodiment of a display configured in accordance with the invention; and

FIG. 17 is a simplified second detailed front elevation view of oneembodiment of a display configured in accordance with the teachings ofthe invention.

In accordance with common practice the various features illustrated inthe drawings may not be drawn to scale. Accordingly, the dimensions ofthe various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.In addition, some of the drawings may be simplified for clarity. Thus,the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given apparatusor method. Finally, like reference numerals denote like featuresthroughout the specification and figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention is described below, with reference to detailedillustrative embodiments. It will be apparent that the invention may beembodied in a wide variety of forms, some of which may be quitedifferent from those of the disclosed embodiments. Consequently, thespecific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merelyrepresentative and do not limit the scope of the invention. For example,references to specific structures and processes in the disclosedembodiments should be understood to be but one example of structures andprocesses that may be used in these or other embodiments in accordancewith the teachings provided herein. Accordingly, otherwise restrictivenomenclatures such as “is,” “are,” etc. should be understood to includeless restrictive meanings such as “may be,” etc. In addition, areference to an element by an indefinite article such as “a” does notexclude the possibility that more than one of the element is present,unless the context clearly requires that there be one and only one ofthe elements.

In some embodiments a system constructed or method practiced accordingto the invention may generate or produce highly accurate informationproducts and applications for field use for Utility Asset Management orUtility Damage Prevention. Various aspects and features of such anembodiment will now be described in the conjunction with a system thatincorporates six major components and a method that involves systemsintegration of the components to deliver the desired products andservices. The six major components described in conjunction with theembodiment of FIG. 1 and include 1) PI SW Components; 2) GIS/GPS andOther Technologies; 3) Field Applications; 4) Data Services—ElectronicManagement and Distribution System; 5) Processes; and 6) InformationProducts.

1—PI SW Components and 2—GIS/GPS Technologies are integrated to developor provide 3—Field Applications that are utilized under Process Controlwith as set forth by 5—Processes. The system, utilizing FieldApplications under Process Control generates or produces 6—InformationProducts that are utilized at different life cycle steps by FieldApplications to enhance data integrity or provide, in various forms, andon a subscription basis Information Products. Information Products aremanaged and distributed during their lifecycle by an ElectronicManagement and Distribution System.

Information Development and Services Life Cycle

In some embodiments the aforementioned components are combined into aninformation product and services life cycle. The life cycle iscontrolled by aforementioned processes to ensure and guarantee theaccuracy, currency, reliability and field usability of data and fieldapplications. The life cycle and processes may be modified to fit theunique requirements of each Project. In this way a wide range of servicelevels may be supported.

FIG. 2 illustrates an overview of one embodiment of an InformationProduct Development life cycle. In particular, FIG. 2 illustrates anexample of top level information and services flow.

A—Create Landbase. A Data Logger (A-1) is utilized to define and collectinitial precise (utilizing PI) data points. External (non PI) data (A-2)including, for example, maps and electronic files may be collected perProject requirements (B-1). PI (Precision Integration) (A-3) is utilizedto create a PI Landbase (A-5) utilizing, for example, external data(A-2) with a (A-4) GIS as described by Grid Certification criteria(B-1). Imagery, maps and other GIS Landbase data may be fitted toPrecision Data Points creating a Precision Integration (PI) Landbase(A-5).

A PI Landbase may be created in a first step by first going to theproject area and collecting initial coordinate data using a data loggerreferenced to the accurate GPS signal. Precise data points may then becollected in a second step.

B—Collect Data. Data is collected utilizing (B-2) Data Logger, (B-3) UIequipment, (B-4) Transponder input or other input devices. External (nonPI) data (B-4) also may be collected. Data collection scheduling andfield methods may be defined by (B-1) Grid Certification criteria. Datacollected creates a PI Facilities file (B-6) that is merged with PILandbase (A-5) to create a (B7) PI Grid.

C—Utilize Data. (C-1) Field Application for Damage Prevention (C-1) mayutilize (B-7) PI Grid to provide Damage Prevention services and/or AssetManagement services (C-2). Data Services (C-3) may provide access to PIGrid (B-7), PI Facilities File (B-6) and other information products.

Major Components

A more detailed description of the six major components follows.

-   1) PI SW Components—In some embodiment these components are software    modules that provide key functionality as follows:    -   a) Precision Integration (PI)—PI indicates that the component or        process supports or has been developed utilizing PI software or        processes. PI software may provide a real time interface to        Precision GPS Hardware and Software providing:        -   i) Locate Data Functionality—The ability to acquire the            position of a utility from Precision GPS Hardware and            Software and to capture the precision location information            and to integrate this information into a Precision GIS            format in real time for immediate use and ‘playback’            utilizing RTI (real time imaging).        -   ii) Locate Position Functionality—The ability to acquire (in            real time) the position of Field GPS Hardware (e.g., located            on a construction vehicle or being carried by an individual)            and to utilize this real time location data for real time            display (e.g., using RTI) of the current location of the            individual or equipment relative to features and utility            locations on a PI map. Location functionality also may be            used to determine distances and other critical information            between the user and the utility for the purpose of damage            prevention activities in the field. PI may be utilized at            numerous steps and, in particular, during the collection of            data and during the field operations of the Field            Applications where real time precision location data is            needed for Field Application functionality. PI may assure            that data that is collected and utilized is accurate and            recallable based on its continuous interface with the            Precision GPS cycle during the product and services life            cycle.    -   b) RTI—Real Time Imagery—RTI may present a project area defined        by a PI Landbase or PI Grid as a scrolling map including aerial        imagery. RTI may be used to allow for location ‘sanity checks’        and display the location of the user or construction equipment        as there is movement around a project area. RTI may shows (in        real-time) data points that are collected, Symbology, meta-data        and other relevant application information. RTI may thus        facilitate real-time feedback and validation, and by        facilitating ‘eyes on the ground validation’ increases data        accuracy significantly. Using RTI, data collectors are able to        validate ‘where they are’ in a project area and to validate that        the data they are collecting is the ‘correct data’. RTI may        utilize PI as a primary input and UGE as primary output.    -   c) UGE—Universal Graphics Engine—A graphics engine for rendering        and displaying PI Grid data in a standard GIS view format. UGE        may be a Scaleable Vector Graphics (SVG) application providing        advanced Web based rendering of mapping and other GIS data and        may be useable with open architecture viewing products and may        provide high flexibility for graphics support of portable        devices like PDAs and other portable computing platforms.    -   d) SYM-API—Symbology API—SYM-API is an Applications Programming        Interface (API) that allows Field Applications to utilize        custom, previously developed and/or commercially or privately        available vertical market Symbology libraries for attaching        Symbols to data points that are collected. For example, such a        symbol may define a particular physical feature of a utility.        SYM-API is defined and called by the Field Applications        Administration module, as needed, based on the types of data        that are being collected during the field session.    -   e) NTR—Nearest Target Record (NTR)—In some embodiments the NTR        is a software application that provides real-time location of        utilities versus the location of the user or field equipment,        selects the nearest utility or NTR, and provides an algorithm        for presenting and warning of the location of this and other        utilities based on user defined buffer rules.

FIG. 3 illustrates an overview of one embodiment of NTR functionality.This functionality includes process steps that the NTR software executesto provide Damage Prevention functionality to the DPM Damage PreventionField Application. These operations are discussed in more detail below.

-   -   f) Transponder—Transponder with Asset Data. One approach for        creating a permanent record of precise location of assets, such        as utility lines underground, is to place transponders on the        utility line as it is being placed in the ground. Thereafter,        when the location of the utility line is to be recorded, a        transponder-on-line reader is moved along the ground to locate        the transponders that are on the utility line. As the        transponders are read, the position of the transponders, and        therefore the utility line, is recorded by the use of an asset        position recorder and a precision GPS receiver coupled to the        recorder. Examples of placing transponders on utility lines and        the later reading of the transponder to produce a record of the        location of the transponders and thus the utility line are        disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/359446 filed        Feb. 4, 2003, which is assigned to the same Assignee of this        application and is incorporated herein by this reference as        though set forth in full. The above-described apparatus and        method for producing precision asset location data involve        the (1) recording of the location during construction while the        asset is being placed underground or (2) recording the output of        transducers that have been placed on the asset, such as the        utility line.

-   2) GIS/GPS Technologies—Other products and technologies may be    integrated into the system or method to provide key functionality.    -   a) Precision GPS—Today, precision GPS provides location results        with a standard of accuracy that supports location of utilities        within ten centimeters without RTK and within millimeters when        using RTK. Precision GPS is used to deliver three-dimensional        fixes and absolute, consistent location resolutions within 10        centimeters or better—anytime, to virtually every region of the        planet's surface. Examples of precision GPS receivers that may        be used are manufactured and sold by NavCom Inc. of Torrance,        Calif. A particularly useful receiver manufactured and sold by        NavCom is the Starfire 2050G receiver    -   b) Underground Imaging (UI)—UI utilizes Ground Penetrating Radar        (GPR), Electromagnetic Imaging (EMI), CART (Computer Aided Radar        Tomography) or other technologies to locate underground        utilities. A UI position reader and recorder may be integrated        with a precision GPS receiver. The Reader and recorder includes        an antenna array for transmitting radar and/or sonar signals        into the ground and recording the return signals for locating        any assets, such as utility lines, that are underground. This        apparatus and method may provide a measurement and record of the        depth of the utility as well as the longitudinal and latitudinal        coordinates of the location of the utility. Further, the reader        and the recorder may determine and record characteristics        associated with the utility such as, for example, the size and        material of the pipe or conduit of the utility, such as gas        pipes, communication lines, water lines and so forth. PI also        may be used to integrate the UI data into PI Grids for further        field application use.    -   c) GIS Landbase—Some embodiments utilize, as a starting point, a        traditional GIS Landbase consisting of located imagery,        infrastructure, such as road, fences, waterways, and other        features and other data. One example of a Landbase is provided        by Sentinel USA of Newark, Ohio and is known by the trademark        Precision LandBASE. Application of PI to a GIS LandBase converts        the LandBase into a PI Landbase. A PI LandBase is a GIS LandBase        template that is accurate enough to integrate and display        precision utility location points to appropriate levels of        accuracy for points taken with Precision GPS. Thus process may        involve, for example, remapping landmarks or other features from        the GIS LandBase with more precise PI location information.    -   d) Ruggedized Computer—Ruggedized Portable Computer. The host        computer for Field Applications including the Data Logger and        Damage Prevention Module and Transponder may be a computer        modified to include storage media, an input modem for a GPS        location device and administrative modules. One example of a        lightweight, powerful and rugged computer is the Hammerhead XRT        computer, which is available from WalkAbout Computers, Inc. of        West Palm Beach, Florida.

-   3) Field Applications—Software applications that provide key    functionality. These applications may be created through systems    integration of (1) SW Components and (2) GIS/GPS Technologies. (FIG.    1)    -   a) Data Logger (DL) A Field Data collection application that        integrates, for example, precision GPS, PI, RTI, and UGE with        other utility data collection software for the purpose of the        collection of Precision data points and utility location data in        the field. In some embodiments a Data Logger is an asset        position recorder that may be used during construction to record        the position of an asset, such as a utility line as it is being        placed underground. One example of a data logger is disclosed in        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. U.S. 2004/0220731 on May        17, 2005 and assigned to the Assignee of this application, the        disclosure of which is incorporated herein by this reference as        though set forth in full. The data logger of the referenced        published application may be converted to a PI data logger by        employing the precision GPS signal and by using the PI Landbase.        Data Logger Functionality

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a Data Logger apparatus forrecording global positioning system coordinates of components of autility, which includes a portable controller having a memory and aglobal positioning system (GPS) coordinate device coupled to thecontroller.

Examples of inputs to the Data Logger are shown in Section (1) of FIG.4. These inputs are (1-A) Precision GPS Receiver Input, (1-B) PILandbase, and (C-1) User Input. Section 2 shows an example movable mapand graphical and other user interface and that may be implemented bythe integration of (1-A) Precision GPS signal with (2-A) PI, precisionintegration (location) with (2B) RTI that is rendered as a userinterface utilizing (2-C) UGE. Section 3 demonstrates example datalogger functionality. (1-C) User Input provides input to (3-A) Adminmodule that sets up Field Application parameters including (3-B)SYM-API. (3-C) Precision Integration, Data locate is used in conjunctionwith (1-A) Precision GPS signal and (3-C) SYM-API to create new utilitylocation database (3-E) a PI Facilities File. (3E) Facilities File and(1B) PI Landbase are presented as movable map using (2B) RTI for realtime data collection feedback and verification and are combined tocreate (3-F) a PI Grid that is the combination of the (1-B) original PILandbase and the newly (3-E) created Facilities File.

-   -   b) Underground Imaging (UI) Data Recorder—A radar/sonar asset        position reader and recorder coupled to and controlled by a        precision GPS receiver and integrated with Data Logger        functionality. The UI Data Recorder combines UI technology with        Data Logger functionality resulting in the creation of PI        Information Products and functionality that includes data        generated by UI technologies and methods        UI Data Recorder Functionality

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of Underground Imaging (UI)Functionality. Examples of inputs to the UI Data Recorder are shown inSection (1) of FIG. 5. These inputs are (1-A) Precision GPS ReceiverInput, (1-B) PI Landbase, and (C-1) User Input. Section 2 shows anexample movable map and graphical and other user interface that may beimplemented by the integration of (1-A) Precision GPS signal with (2-A)UI Hardware and Software with PI, precision integration (location) with(2B) RTI that is rendered as a user interface utilizing (2-C) UGE.Section 3 demonstrates UI example Data Collection functionality. (1-C)User Input provides input to (3-A) Admin module that sets up FieldApplication parameters including (3-B) SYM-API. (3-C) PrecisionIntegration, Data locate is used in conjunction with (1-A) Precision GPSsignal and (2-A) UI Data location inputs and (3-C) SYM-API to create newutility location database (3-E), a PI Facilities File. (3E) FacilitiesFile and (1B) PI Landbase may be combined to create (3-F) a PI Grid.

-   -   c) Damage Prevention Module (DPM)—The Damage Prevention        application provides field useable utility location and warning        capabilities to avoid damage to utilities. In some embodiments        the Damage Prevention module utilizes the PI Grid output from        the Data Logger, UI Data Collection or the Transponder Recorder        applications as the basis for providing Damage Prevention        functionality in the field. The Damage Prevention application        may be used to warn of critical distances between identified        utilities and digging equipment and displays visual and audible        alarms. A user may input to the administration module parameters        such as the length and reach of the digging equipment and the        scale for the warning display. Numerous other parameters may be        input to the administration module by the user at the project        site. The application may prevent the accidental hitting or        damage to assets, such as gas pipelines, by the digging        equipment by a filtration process which is set forth by the NTR        software module.        Damage Prevention (DPM) Functionality

FIG. 6 illustrate one embodiment of Damage Prevention Functionality.Examples of inputs to the Damage Prevention Application (DPM) are shownin Section (1) of FIG. 6. These inputs are (1-A) Precision GPS ReceiverInput, (1-B) PI Grid, and (C-1) User Input. Section 2 shows examplemovable map and graphical and other user interface that may beimplemented by the integration of (1-A) Precision GPS signal with (2-A)PI, precision integration (location) with (2B) RTI and (3-F) PI GRID and(3-C) Display Warning that is rendered as a user interface utilizing(2-C) UGE. Section 3 demonstrates example damage preventionfunctionality. (1-C) User Input provides input to (3-A) Admin modulethat sets up Field Application parameters and (3-B) NTR damageprevention setup parameters. (3-E) Precision Integration, Data locate isused in conjunction with (1-A) Precision GPS signal and (3-B) NTR and(3-F) PI Grid to implement warning system as a visual display via (2B)RTI and as an audible warning (3-C).

-   -   d) Transponder Logger—Transponder Data Logging Field        Application. Data Logger capability may be integrated with a        transponder-on-line reader that is moved along the ground to        locate the transponders that are on the utility line. As the        transponders are read, the position of the transponders, and        therefore the utility line, is recorded. Transponders may be        located via signals that they transmit, and may, also include        original precision GPS location data that was collected as they        were placed on the utilities.        Transponder Recorder Functionality

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of Transponder Logger Functionality.Examples of inputs to the Transponder Recorder are shown in Section (1)of FIG. 7. These inputs are (1-A) Precision GPS Receiver Input, (1-B) PILandbase, and (C-1) User Input. Section 2 shows example movable map andgraphical and other user interface that may be implemented by theintegration of (1-A) Precision GPS signal with (2B) RTI that is renderedas a user interface utilizing (2-C) UGE. Section 3 demonstrates exampleTransponder Recorder functionality. (1-C) User Input provides input to(3-A) Admin module that sets up Field Application parameters including(3-B) SYM-API. (3-C) Precision Integration, Data locate is used inconjunction with (2-A) Transponder location and data signal and (3-C)SYM-API to create new utility location database (3-E), a PI FacilitiesFile. (3E) Facilities File and (1B) PI Landbase are presented as movablemap using (2B) RTI for real time data collection feedback andverification and are combined to create (3-F) a PI Grid.

-   4) PI Data Services—Electronic Management and Distribution System    (EMDS)—Some embodiments utilize an Electronic Management and    Distribution system to manage, store, and distribute information    products that are generated. EMDS may provide configuration    management and data synchronization services to field applications    and may provide subscription based private and public access to    information products that are developed. EMDS may be utilized as a    key component to the implementation of configuration management and    security considerations that are set forth by Project Criteria as    described in the Certification processes that are used to guarantee    or certify data to be used on various projects.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of EMDS Data Processing and FieldSynchronization Flow. FIG. 8 illustrates the data management andprocessing flow of EDMS in support of Project data management processcriteria. The Project may be defined based on criteria set by theProject Manager and all system parameters for the Project are programmedinto the EMDS system. The Initial PI Landbase is stored on the systemfor distribution to field application computers. SYNC programs downloadthe initial PI Landbase to Data collector applications. Data CollectorApplications are further configured in the field then perform datacollection tasks. Data collected is SYNC back to EDMS and processed (ifnecessary) to create a PI Grid. PI Grid data is SYNC back to the fieldfor Damage Prevention Applications. PI Landbase and PI Grid data isprovided by EDMS for public or private use on a subscription basis.

The EMDS may serve as a central repository for Information Products thatare developed. Data is moved securely from the central repository to thefield via the Internet utilizing secure and robust applications like WebServices that are currently provided by the Microsoft Net architecture.Field applications access EMDS via the Internet via wireless transfermethods. All information products are served to users via a Web graphicsuser interface provided by the Universal Graphics Engine (UGE) whichsupports graphical displays on a wide variety of viewing devicesincluding portable computers, PDAs and cell phones.

-   5) Processes—Processes may be invoked or other wise incorporated to    certify or guarantee the accuracy and usefulness of Information    Products. In some embodiments Processes and Certification Methods    (Certification) are used to validate and certify that utility    location data meets accuracy, completeness and usability standards.    A Project Manager that is depending on PI based Damage Prevention    Services may seek assurance that the PI Grid data is accurate,    complete, up to date and applicable to the Project to a standard    that provides a high degree of confidence that utility damages will    be avoided if the system is utilized to identify the location of    potential utility conflicts. Certification may answer the following    questions for the Project Manager and give the Project Manager a    confidence level at which he or she can utilize the data to take    actions in the field:    -   a) Is the Project Area correctly defined? Do I have all the data        I need to support the Project?    -   b) Is utility positional data correct?To what degree (distance        from actual utility location) is it correct?    -   c) How current is the Data? Have any utilities or other        construction been put in the ground since the utility locations        were collected?    -   d) Who developed the data and when?    -   e) How complete is the data? Was data collected and verified in        conjunction with planned Project utility activities (pot holing,        as-built) at the project site?    -   f) Have significant or dangerous utilities (gas lines) been        specifically called out?    -   g) Have personnel on the site (equipment operators, supervisors,        data collectors) been trained and certified in the use of the        equipment?

FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of Certification and ManagementProcesses. FIG. 9 illustrates that a Certification Process may provide amanagement and operational framework to support a Project. At each stepof the process of creating information products or utilizing fieldapplications, Project Criteria are followed to ensure the integrity andapplicability and usability of the data in support of the particularrequirements of each project. In some embodiments Process andCertification may involve the following steps:

-   1) Define Project—Set Project Criteria and Data Collection Plan    -   a) Define PROJECT SCOPE (SUE, FAA, Utility)        -   i) Regulatory environment—What rules, regulations, laws,            constraints, measures apply to this Project        -   ii) Data Access and Usage, Who has access to What data, When        -   iii) Define PROJECT GRID—Area within which project will be            performed    -   b) Define PI LANDBASE FEATURE SET        -   i) GIS Data, Projections Datum etc.        -   ii) Images—Source, Currency, Resolution        -   iii) Other Maps—Source, Configuration, Detail        -   iv) Other Data Sources—File Format        -   v) Define Error correction criteria for imported data (maps            and other GIS data)    -   c) Define UTILITY DATA GATHERING PROCESS        -   i) Roles and Responsibilities (Project Manager Field Mgmt,            GPS Field Services, Data Logging Company, UI Company)        -   ii) Define Types and Sequence of Data Gathering (PI Locates,            PI Potholes, PI As Built, Pi UI        -   iii) Quantify Number of Data Gathering Sweeps—Number of            iterations of each type of data gathering    -   d) Define PI GRID CRITERIA        -   i) Define Data UPDATE and Configuration Management BUSINESS            RULES        -   ii) AGREE ON CRITERIA FOR ACCEPTANCE OF PI GRID (approved            use of data set for Damage Prevention    -   e) Define CERTIFICATION Training CRITERIA (training required for        Data Gathering and Use of Damage Prevention)-   2) Create PI Landbase    -   a) BUILD PROJECT PI LANDBASE        -   i) Identify Project Grid Area with PI Grid SYSTEM        -   ii) Field Gather Precision Grid Locate Points        -   iii) Acquire Imagery based on Project Criteria        -   iv) Acquire Maps and other Data Inputs based on Project            Criteria        -   v) Implement Precision placement (rubber sheeting etc.) of            all input data        -   vi) RELEASE PI LANDBASE (Release to Project based on Project            Criteria)        -   vii) ACCEPT PI LANDBASE (Project Manager Reviews and Accepts            Precision Landbase)-   3) Collect Utility Location Data    -   a) COLLECT UTILITY DATA—Certified FIELD UNITS        -   i) SET UP PROJECT on Field Application (Set up Field Unique            Profiles (i.e. TYPE of Collection (Locates, As Built etc.)            Symbology Set, User etc.)        -   ii) COLLECT DATA in Field Utilizing Data Logger Application        -   iii) Validate Field Data Collection Utilizing Data Logger            View Application        -   iv) SYNCH—(UPLOAD) Field Data to Data Services Server    -   b) REPEAT PROCESS AS REQUIRED BY PROJECT REQUIREMENTS    -   c) COLLECT UTILITY DATA—3RD PARTY UI DEVICES        -   i) SET UP PROJECT on Field Application (Set up Field Unique            Profiles (i.e. TYPE of Collection (Locates, As Built etc.)            Symbology Set, User etc.)        -   ii) COLLECT DATA in Field Utilizing 3RD PARTY DEVICE        -   iii) PROVIDE RAW DATA TO POST PROCESSING CONTRACTOR        -   iv) 3rd Party Data is Post Processed and ADDED TO PROJECT            GRID ON Data Services Server        -   v) SYNCH—(DOWNLOAD) FIELD DATA INCLUDING 3RD PARTY DATA to            Data Services Server        -   vi) REPEAT PROCESS AS REQUIRED BY PROJECT REQUIREMENTS-   4) Utilize Data for Project Purposes (Damage Prevention, Asset    Management)    -   a) CERTIFY PI GRID (Validate with Project Manager that Data may        be used for Damage Prevention)        -   i) Project Manager—REVIEWS, ACCEPTS AND CERTIFIES that Grid            may be used for Damage Prevention on Project        -   ii) CERTIFY—(MARK) PROJECT GRID AS A PI GRID on Data            Services    -   b) PROVIDE GUARDIAN PROSTAR DATA SERVICES        -   i) Damage Prevention Services        -   ii) Utility Asset Management Services-   6) Information Products—Information Products may be produced through    the use of Field Applications and PI Processes. Information Products    may be managed and distributed through their life cycle by Data    Services supported by the EMDS platform. Data products are developed    during the lifecycle of a Project. Customers will have access to and    usage of information products based on parameters set for each    Project. Information Products are created from informational    ‘building blocks’ during the life cycle of a Project. For example, a    PI Grid, which may be the most comprehensive Information Product,    may be built from a GIS Landbase, that is improved into a PI    Landbase to which utility location information (in the form of a PI    Facilities File) is added to produce a PI Grid. In some embodiments    the PI Grid is the only information product that may be certified    for use for Damage Prevention and must be created utilizing Project    processes and parameters that result in Certification of the PI Grid    for this type of use.

With the above operations in mind, FIG. 10 illustrates an overview ofone embodiment of a management system 1000 constructed in accordancewith the invention. These operations may be performed in conjunctionwith various data services 1002 as discussed herein. Initially, aproject (job) is defined a block 1004. Next, a GIS Landbase is created(block 1006) utilizing map data 1008. Data is gathered (block 1010)using, for example, one or more data logger, map, UI and transponderdevices. Data management operations (block 1012) may be invoked tomanage one or more of the databases. A precision database may then beused for damage prevention, data logging and asset management operations(block 1014). For example, asset management operations may include usinga facility file or similar information to identify, characterize ortrack an asset. In addition, various information products (block 1016)may be defined as discussed herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-14, one embodiment of a damage preventionsystem will be discussed. The damage prevention system consists of threeparts; two of which may be housed in the same housing. The three partsare apparatus and method for collecting data, apparatus and method formanipulating the data to put it into a standardized form and theapparatus and method for using the data on equipment to prevent damageby the equipment or to minimize damage to the equipment

Precision [within 10 centimeters, without using real-time kinetics(RTK), and within millimeter accuracy using RTK] asset location data maybe created by the apparatus and method of this invention. In particular,there is shown in FIG. A of FIG. 11 an apparatus and method thatprovides a precision location of the asset, such as a utility line, asit is being placed in the earth. A permanent record of this precisionlocation is based on latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates that arestored for later use. A precision GPS receiver 10 provides the preciselatitudinal and longitudinal coordinates for the asset position recorder11 while the utility line is being placed in the ground. Precision GPSreceivers that may be useful in this invention are manufactured and soldby NavCom Inc. of Torrance, Calif. A particularly useful receivermanufactured and sold by NavCom is the Starfire 2050G receiver. An assetposition recorder II that may be used during construction to record theposition of an asset, such as a utility line as it is being placedunderground, is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/714091filed Nov. 13, 2003 and assigned to the same Assignee as thisapplication. The disclosure of this Application is incorporated hereinas though set forth in full.

Another approach for creating a permanent record of the precise locationof assets, such as utility lines underground, is shown in FIG. B of FIG.11. In this approach transponders are placed on the utility line as itis being placed in the ground. Thereafter, when the location of theutility line is to be recorded, a transponder-on-line reader 14 is movedalong the ground to locate the transponders that are on the utilityline. As the transponders are read, the position of the transponders,and therefore the utility line, is recorded by the use of an assetposition recorder 15 and a precision GPS receiver 16 that is coupled tothe recorder 15. The precision GPS receiver 16 may be the same receiveras the GPS receiver 10 of FIG. A. The output of the asset positionrecorder 15 is an ASCII stream having fields for the latitudinalcoordinates, the longitudinal coordinates and the identification of theunderground asset. The placing of transponders on utility lines and thelater reading of the transponder to produce a record of the location ofthe transponders and thus the utility line are disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/359446 filed Feb. 4, 2003, which is assigned tothe same Assignee of this application. The disclosure of the Applicationis incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth in full.

The two above-described apparatus and method for producing precisionasset location data involve the recording of the location duringconstruction while the asset is being placed underground or recordingthe output of transducers that have been placed on the asset, such asthe utility line. Many areas do not have any information as to thelocation of assets such as utility lines that are underground in thearea. An effective way of determining the location of such assets andpermanently recording the location for later use is the apparatus thatis shown in FIG. C of FIG. 11. This apparatus includes a radar/sonarasset position reader and recorder 18 coupled to and controlled by aprecision GPS receiver 19. This GPS receiver 19 may be the same as theGPS receiver 10 of FIG. A. Reader and recorder 18 includes an antennaarray for transmitting radar and sonar signals into the ground andrecording the return signals for locating any assets, such as utilitylines, that are underground. This apparatus and method provides ameasurement and record of the depth of the utility as well as thelongitudinal and latitudinal coordinates of the location of the utility.Further, the reader and the recorder 18 determines and records the sizeand material of the pipe or conduit of the utility, such as gas pipes,communication lines, water lines and so forth. The output of the readerand recorder 18 is an ASCII stream with fields for the longitudinalcoordinate, latitudinal coordinate and identification of the asset orutility that is underground at the precise location.

There are various devices for locating utilities and recording thelocation of these utilities such as radar/sonar readers and groundpenetrating radar readers. However, it has been found that the recordscreated by these readers may have the location of the underground assetor facility as much as 15 feet away from the actual location. Thus, ifthis information is to be used in a precision damage control system, itis necessary to determine the extent of error and correct for this errorwhen the data is employed. Apparatus for employing the records ofearlier readers and recorders 21 is shown in FIG. D of FIG. 11. Theoutput of the reader and recorder 21 passes through an error detectorwhich develops an error correction signal that is coupled to the dataand is used in correcting the location of the asset when the data isemployed in a damage control system. Further, there are some existingasset position records that have been created when the utility or assethas been placed in the ground. It has been found that these records alsoare not accurate in the location of the asset. Consequently, thedifference between recorded location and actual location must bedetermined as shown in FIG. F. of FIG. 11. An error detector 24 iscoupled to the output of existing asset position records medium 23 fordeveloping an error correction signal to be coupled to the data for useby a damage control system.

Data Manipulation

The asset location data at the output of the apparatus of FIG. 11 iscoupled as the input to a utility designating unit 40 shown in FIG. 12.The utility designating unit 40 may be located in the field and employedat the same time as the precision asset location data is being read andrecorded by the various apparatuses 11, 14, and 18 shown in FIGS. A, Band C of FIG. 11. The precision asset location data that is in the formof ASCII codes in designated fields has ASCII fields added in unit 40 toidentify the type of utility employing symbology information from alibrary. A layer definition field is also added based on the type ofutility that has been identified. For example, a gas pipeline is a verydangerous utility to cut into in the field while digging in the field.Consequently, gas lines are identified at a higher level than otherutilities and have a greater buffer zone around the line to prevent theaccidental hitting of the line in the field. The output of the utilitydesignating unit 40 is coupled to a converter 41 that converts the datastream into a geographical information system (GIS) format. There areseveral major or standard formats including, for example, Autodesk,ESRI, Intergraph, GE Small World, and MapInfo. The GIS format isselected on the basis of the subsequent use of the data by a damagecontrol unit. In addition to the information concerning the asset orutility, it is often times desirable to have the infrastructure, such asroad, fences, waterways, and so forth, that are in the area mapped on adisplay that is being used for displaying the location of the assets. Alocation of the infrastructure in the GIS data should be as precise asthe location of the utilities from the precise asset location data. Suchprecise 015 data is provided by SentinelUSA of Newark, Ohio and is knownby the trademark Precision LandBASE Data. The file of such data iscontained in the memory 42 shown in FIG. 12.

The utility designating unit 40 may also have input from the readers andrecorders 21 and 23 of FIGS. D and E of FIG. 11. In this case, the assetlocation data will also include the error compensation signal at theoutput of error detectors 22 and 24. This error signal is used by theutility designating unit 40 to provide an additional buffer or areaaround the utility based on the degree of error that is shown by theerror correction signal.

Data Usage

There are two types of equipment that may use the data that is providedby the utility designating unit 40 and converter 41 at a work area wherethe location of assets, need to be known to prevent damage to the assetand/or the equipment at the work area. One type of equipment is thatused in breaking ground near above-ground assets and near undergroundassets. Another type of equipment that may use the data is emergencyequipment, such as fire fighting equipment, where it is useful to knowthe location of the various utilities, such as power lines and gaslines. The use of the data will be described in connection with diggingequipment at a site.

The asset location data in the form of a facility file at the output ofthe converter 41 is provided to a control unit 50 (FIG. 3) that ispositioned on the digging equipment (not shown) at the project site. Thecontrol unit or controller 50 may be a computer modified to includestorage media, an input modem for a GPS location device andadministrative modules. One acceptable lightweight, powerful and ruggedcomputer is the Hammerhead XRT computer, which is available fromWalkAbout Computers, Inc. of West Palm Beach, Fla.

The facility file may be provided by a direct coupling between theconverter 41 and the controller 50 on the digging equipment. In thiscase the asset location data is provided to the utility designating unit40 on the digging equipment by a memory device or by an Internetcoupling or line coupling to a location where the asset location data isstored. Alternatively to the direct coupling, the facility file data maybe provided on a memory medium to the controller 50 or may betransmitted to the controller 50 by way of the internet, wirelesscommunication, or direct coupling by line to a facility where thefacility file is stored for the particular project site. The controller50 includes a facility file memory 51 and a GIS file memory 52. Thecontroller 50 further includes a microprocessor and memory 53 thatincludes software for performing a unique filtration process thatidentifies the utilities and/or protected areas that are within theselected range of the equipment at the project site. The equipment(digger) is represented by an input modem 54 that provides the OPSlocation of the equipment at the project site. The OPS location of theequipment is determined by a precision GPS receiver 60 that provides itsinput to the controller 50 through the modem or GPS equipment locationblock 54.

An administration module 55 is provided in the controller 50 so that theuser of the controller 50 may input control signals for the digger atthe particular project site. These control signals include criticaldistances between identified utilities and the digging equipment fordisplaying alarms and for also causing audible alarms. Theadministration module 55 also requires a password to be entered for theuser to log into the controller 50 for use at the project location. Theuser also inputs to the administration module 55 parameters such as thesize and reach of the digging equipment and the scale for the display onthe display 61. Numerous other parameters may be input to theadministration module by the user at the project site The apparatus atthe project site also includes an audible alarm 62 which may be internalof the controller 50 or external of the controller 50 as shown in FIG.13.

The microprocessor 53 of the controller 50 scans the data in thefacility file 51 and displays all utilities within a selected range ofthe digging equipment. The selected range may be 100 feet or 1000 feet,for example. The controller 50 prevents the accidental hitting or damageto assets, such as gas pipelines, by the digging equipment by a uniquefiltration process which is set forth as a flow chart in FIG. 14. InStep 1 the software for filtration, which is part of the microprocessor53, retrieves stored positional coordinates of assets and incoming GPSpositional coordinates of the digging equipment. In Step 2 thefiltration process compares the positional coordinates; that is,performs a cross data query in real time between the positionalcoordinates of the assets and the incoming GPS positional coordinates ofthe digging equipment. Step 3 of the filtration process includes thecalculation of the distance of the assets from the equipment by thepositional coordinate differences and identifies those within selectedzones. The selected zones may be 10 ft., 20 ft. or 30 ft. from thedigging equipment for example. In Step 4 of the process the softwareretrieves and scans the linear segments of each asset's data stream ofthe asset within the selected zone to produce target filtration records(TFR). In Step 5 of the process the software separates the targetfiltration record segments and orders them numerically by a calculatedtarget distance value while continuously checking against the real timeGPS positional coordinates. In Step 6 of the process the softwareidentifies the present nearest target record NTR) and isolates thisrecord from the other TFRs. In step 7 of the process, the software locksonto the linear record of the present nearest target record and notesthe distance of this asset from the digging equipment. In Step 8, thesoftware displays the nearest target record asset's position relative tothe position of the digging equipment on the display 61. While thenearest target record asset is being displayed on the display 61, thebuffer distance for the identified asset is used. In Step 9 the processretrieves the positional coordinates and the buffer zone of the assetthat has been identified as the nearest target record. In Step 10, thewarning zone for the particular asset is retrieved and is an input aspart of Step 11. In Step 11, the distance of the asset that has beenidentified with the nearest target record˜including the assets bufferzone, from the digging equipment is determined and compared to warningzones. In Step 12 of the process warning signals and colors aregenerated. In Step 13 the warning signal and color are coupled to thedisplay 61 and to the audible alarm 62. In one embodiment the asset onthe display is displayed with a flashing yellow to indicate that theasset is within the designated range for caution. As the relativedistance between the asset and digging equipment decreases, the displaychanges to orange to inform the user that it is in the warning zone. Asthe distance reaches a critical point of danger, the location of theasset is indicated in a flashing red and the audible alarm signal instep 14 is created and the alarm is sounded in the audible alarm 62. Forcritical assets such as high pressure gas lines, when the relativedistance between the asset and the digging equipment reaches the dangerzone, and depending upon the system settings, the digging equipment canbe automatically disabled so that no further digging may take place andthere will be no damage to the asset and also to the equipment andequipment operator.

Referring now to FIGS. 15-17, a method of dynamically tracking alocation of one or more selected utilities as a movement occurs within amunicipal service area will now be described. This method is describedin U.S. Pat. No. 6,798,379, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein.

In FIG. 15, a first step involves: providing a portable controller,generally indicated by reference numeral 110. Controller 110 has amemory 112 and a global positioning system (GPS) co-ordinate device 114.A scrolling display 116 is also coupled to controller 110.

A second step involves storing in memory 112 a series of GPSco-ordinates 118 for one or more selected utilities 120 within anassigned service area of a municipality as shown in FIG. 16.

Referring to FIG. 15, a third step involves: using GPS co-ordinatedevice 114 to dynamically provide GPS co-ordinates 118 to controller 110as positioning of GPS co-ordinate device 114 changes location.

Referring to FIG. 16, a fourth step involves: using scrolling display116 to display GPS co-ordinates of GPS co-ordinate device 114 on adisplay 122 of global positioning system co-ordinates, together with aseries of GPS co-ordinates 118 for one or more of selected utilities120, such that the relative position of GPS co-ordinate device 114 toone or more selected utilities 118 is always known.

Referring to FIG. 16, scrolling display 116 has a graphic indicator 124which indicates a direction of travel for GPS co-ordinate device 114.There is also displayed a numeric indicator 126 which indicates thedistance in the direction of travel before GPS co-ordinate device 114encounters the closest of selected utilities 120. There is also agraphic indicator 128 depicting a target, which graphically indicatesthe positioning of satellites available to GPS co-ordinate device 114.

Referring to FIG. 16, scrolling display 116 has a numeric indicator 130,which indicates longitude, and a numeric indicator 132, which indicateslatitude 132. Display also has a graphic indicator 134, which indicatesspeed of travel 134 of GPS co-ordinate device 114. Of course, whenemergency crews are on foot the speed will be negligible. However, whenthe emergency crews are traveling in a vehicle, the speed of the vehiclewill be indicated.

Referring to FIG. 16, scrolling display 116 places GPS co-ordinates 118in the context of a geographical map 136 with road infrastructure 138.It is preferred that geographical map 136 may be in the form of anaerial photo.

Referring to FIG. 17, scrolling display 116 has a pop-up display screen140 which provides vital data identifying characteristics of the closestof selected utilities 120. In the illustrated example, the utilityidentified is a natural gas pipeline owned by Process Energy-EasternNorth Carolina Natural Gas, serviced out of a contact office in Raleigh,N.C.

An important aspect is the dynamic nature of scrolling display 116,which scrolls as the GPS co-ordinates of GPS co-ordinate device 114change. This scrolling aspect is particularly apparent when theemergency crew is approaching a site in a vehicle. The systemcontinuously scans the GPS data it receives: first, to ascertain theposition of GPS-co-ordinate device 114 and second, for relativeco-ordinates of utility hazards. All of the displays continually scrolland update the data with movement of GPS co-ordinate device 114. Whenone gets within a pre-determined area of interest, a circular icon 146appears on scrolling display 116 and locks onto the closest utility toshow the point at which GPS co-ordinate device 114 will cross theutility if it continues in the same direction.

Referring to FIG. 16, scrolling display 116 may also be manuallyscrolled using an on screen up arrow 142 or an on screen down arrow 144,to enable the emergency crew to manually look ahead, without changingtheir position.

It should be appreciated that the various components and featuresdescribed herein may be incorporated in a system independently of theother components and features. For example, a system incorporating theteachings herein may include various combinations of these componentsand features. Thus, not all of the components and features describedherein may be employed in every such system.

Different embodiments of the invention may include a variety of hardwareand software processing components. In some embodiments of theinvention, hardware components such as controllers, state machinesand/or logic are used in a system constructed in accordance with theinvention. In some embodiments code such as software or firmwareexecuting on one or more processing devices may be used to implement oneor more of the described operations.

Such components may be implemented on one or more integrated circuits.For example, in some embodiments several of these components may becombined within a single integrated circuit. In some embodiments some ofthe components may be implemented as a single integrated circuit. Insome embodiments some components may be implemented as severalintegrated circuits.

The components and functions described herein may be connected/coupledin many different ways. The manner in which this is done may depend, inpart, on whether the components are separated from the other components.In some embodiments some of the connections represented by the leadlines in the drawings may be in an integrated circuit, on a circuitboard and/or over a backplane to other circuit boards. In someembodiments some of the connections represented by the lead lines in thedrawings may comprise a data network, for example, a local networkand/or a wide area network (e.g., the Internet).

The signals discussed herein may take several forms. For example, insome embodiments a signal may be an electrical signal transmitted over awire while other signals may consist of light pulses transmitted over anoptical fiber. A signal may comprise more than one signal. For example,a signal may consist of a series of signals. Also, a differential signalcomprises two complementary signals or some other combination ofsignals. In addition, a group of signals may be collectively referred toherein as a signal. Signals as discussed herein also may take the formof data. For example, in some embodiments an application program maysend a signal to another application program. Such a signal may bestored in a data memory.

A wide variety of devices may be used to implement the database and datamemories discussed herein. For example, a database or data memory maycomprise RAM, ROM, disks, flash memory or other types of data storagedevices.

In summary, the invention described herein generally relates to animproved utility management system. While certain exemplary embodimentshave been described above in detail and shown in the accompanyingdrawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merelyillustrative of and not restrictive of the broad invention. Inparticular, it should be recognized that the teachings of the inventionapply to a wide variety of systems and processes. It will thus berecognized that various modifications may be made to the illustrated andother embodiments of the invention described above, without departingfrom the broad inventive scope thereof. In view of the above it will beunderstood that the invention is not limited to the particularembodiments or arrangements disclosed, but is rather intended to coverany changes, adaptations or modifications which are within the scope andspirit of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

1. A method of identifying a location of a utility comprising: definingat least one geographic database comprising at least one utilitylocation with accuracy of at least a decimeter; determining, withaccuracy of at least a decimeter, a current location; and determining adistance between the current location and the at least one utilitylocation.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the accuracy of the at leastone utility location is on the order of a millimeter and the accuracy ofthe current location is on the order of a millimeter.
 3. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the at least one utility location and the currentlocation are determined using real time kinetics.
 4. The method of claim1 wherein the at least one utility location and the current location aredetermined using precision GPS signals.
 5. The method of claim 1comprising generating an alarm indication in accordance with thedistance.
 6. A method of collecting utility location informationcomprising: identifying a current location; identifying at least oneutility at the current location; associating the current location withthe at least one utility; displaying a representation of an areacomprising the current location and a representation of the at least oneutility, the displayed representation changing, in real-time, inaccordance with at least one of a change of position and a change ofdirection associated with the current location; and storing data in atleast one database in accordance with the associated current locationand at least one utility.
 7. The method of claim 6 comprisingassociating meta-data with the at least one utility.
 8. The method ofclaim 6 wherein the representation comprises at least one of mapinformation and image information.
 9. The method of claim 6 wherein therepresentation comprises at least one landmark.
 10. The method of claim9 comprising verifying the current location in accordance with alocation of the at least one landmark.
 11. The method of claim 6comprising identifying the at least utility using at least one of radar,sonar and transponders.
 12. A method of collecting utility locationinformation comprising: identifying a current location with accuracy ofat least a decimeter; identifying at least one utility at the currentlocation; associating the current location with the at least oneutility; and storing data in at least one database in accordance withthe associated current location and at least one utility.
 13. The methodof claim 12 wherein the accuracy of the current location is on the orderof a millimeter.
 14. The method of claim 12 comprising identifying thecurrent location using real time kinetics.
 15. The method of claim 12comprising identifying the current location using precision GPS signals.16. The method of claim 12 comprising identifying the at least utilityusing at least one of radar, sonar and transponders.
 17. A damageavoidance method comprising: identifying, with accuracy of at least adecimeter, a current location; retrieving, from at least one database,at least one utility location with accuracy of at least a decimeter;displaying a representation of an area comprising the current locationand a representation of at least one utility associated with the atleast one utility location, the displayed representation changing, inreal-time, in accordance with at least one of a change of position and achange of direction associated with the current location; determining adistance between the current location and the at least one utilitylocation; and generating an indication in accordance with the distance.18. The method of claim 17 wherein the indication comprises at least oneof an audible alarm and a visual alarm.
 19. The method of claim 17comprising identifying segments associated with the at least one utilitylocation and ordering the segments in accordance with a distance betweeneach segment and the current location.
 20. The method of claim 19comprising identifying a nearest segment and comparing a buffer zonewith a distance between the nearest segment and the current position.21. The method of claim 20 comprising locking-on to the nearest segmentto determine when to generate the indication.
 22. The method of claim 17comprising displaying a representation associated with the currentposition and a representation associated with the at least one utility.23. A damage avoidance method comprising: identifying, with accuracy ofat least a decimeter, a current location; retrieving, from at least onedatabase, at least one utility location with accuracy of at least adecimeter; determining a distance between the current location and theat least one utility location; and generating an indication inaccordance with the distance.
 24. The method of claim 23 wherein theindication comprises at least one of an audible alarm and a visualalarm.
 25. The method of claim 23 wherein the indication comprises arepresentation associated with the current position and a representationassociated with the at least one utility.
 26. The method of claim 23comprising identifying segments associated with the at least one utilitylocation and ordering the segments in accordance with a distance betweeneach segment and the current location.
 27. The method of claim 26comprising identifying a nearest segment and comparing a buffer zonewith a distance between the nearest segment and the current position.28. The method of claim 27 comprising locking-on to the nearest segmentto determine when to generate the indication.
 29. The method of claim 23comprising displaying a representation associated with the currentposition and a representation associated with the at least one utility.30. A real-time imaging method comprising: identifying a currentlocation; defining an area comprising the current location; displaying arepresentation of the area, the displayed representation changing, inreal-time, in accordance with at least one of a change of position and achange of direction associated with the current position; and displayingat least one utility associated with the area.
 31. The method of claim30 wherein the representation comprises at least one of map informationand image information.
 32. The method of claim 30 wherein therepresentation comprises at least one landmark.
 33. The method of claim32 comprising verifying the current location in accordance with alocation of the at least one landmark.
 34. The method of claim 30wherein the representation comprises meta-data associated with the atleast one utility.
 35. The method of claim 30 comprising identifying alocation of the at least one utility, associating the location of the atleast one utility with the current location and storing data in at leastone database in accordance with the associated current location and atleast one utility.
 36. The method of claim 30 comprising determining adistance between the current location and the at least one utility. 37.The method of claim 36 comprising generating an alarm indication inaccordance with the distance.
 38. A utility management methodcomprising: defining a utility project; defining parameters forgenerating a geographical database associated with the utility project;defining parameters for collecting utility information associated withthe utility project; defining parameters for integrating the utilityinformation and the geographical database; and defining a utilizationmethod for the integrated utility information and geographical database.39. The method of claim 38 comprising defining accuracy of theintegrated utility information and geographical database.
 40. The methodof claim 38 comprising defining accuracy of the utilization method. 41.The method of claim 38 wherein the utilization method comprises utilitydamage avoidance.
 42. The method of claim 38 comprising, during a lifecycle of the project, certifying at least one of accuracy, completeness,currency and field usability of at least one of the integrated utilityinformation and geographical database. and the utilization method. 43.The method of claim 38 comprising synchronizing at least one of thegeographical database, the utility information and the integratedutility information and geographical database.
 44. The method of claim43 wherein synchronizing comprises maintaining at least one centralizeddatabase for collecting and/or utilizing data in the field.
 45. Themethod of claim 44 comprising providing subscription-based access to theat least one centralized database.
 46. An utility position certificationmethod comprising: certifying that utility position data is correct to adegree of accuracy; certifying currency of the utility position data;and certifying completeness of the utility position data.
 47. The methodof claim 46 comprising certifying that a utility position project iscorrectly defined.
 48. The method of claim 46 comprising certifying atleast one of a method of data collection, personnel training and thatutility levels have been specified.
 49. The method of claim 46 whereinthe utility levels comprise indications of a dangerousness of a utilityline.
 50. The method of claim 46 wherein the personnel trainingcomprises data collecting training and damage prevention training. 51.The method of claim 46 comprising reviewing and accepting a precisionlandbase.
 52. The method of claim 46 comprising validating field datacollection utilizing a real-time imagery application.
 53. The method ofclaim 46 comprising reviewing and accepting that utility position datamay be used for damage avoidance.
 54. An apparatus for identifying alocation of a utility comprising: a GPS receiver for generating, withaccuracy of at least a decimeter, current location data; at least one atleast one geographic database comprising at least one utility locationwith accuracy of at least a decimeter; and at least one processorconfigured to determine a distance between the current location and theat least one utility location.
 55. The apparatus of claim 54 wherein theaccuracy of the at least one utility location is on the order of amillimeter and the accuracy of the current location is on the order of amillimeter.
 56. The apparatus of claim 54 comprising at least one realtime kinetics apparatus adapted to determine the at least one utilitylocation and the current location.
 57. The apparatus of claim 54 whereinthe at least one processor is adapted to generate an alarm indication inaccordance with the distance.
 58. An apparatus for collecting utilitylocation information comprising: a GPS receiver for generating, withaccuracy of at least a decimeter, current location data; at least oneprocessor adapted to identify at least one utility at the currentlocation and adapted to associate the current location with the at leastone utility; and at least one database configured to store data inaccordance with the associated current location and at least oneutility.
 59. The apparatus of claim 58 wherein the accuracy of thecurrent location is on the order of a millimeter.
 60. The apparatus ofclaim 58 comprising at least one real time kinetics apparatus adapted todetermine the current location.
 61. The apparatus of claim 58 comprisingat least one of a radar apparatus, a sonar apparatus and a transpondersensor configured to identify the at least one utility.
 62. A method ofintegrating GIS data and utility location data derived from a GPS signalthat provides accuracy within 10 Centimeters without RTK and millimeteraccuracy with RTK.
 63. The method of claim 62 comprising the furtherstep of creating an accurate utility location record utilizing theaccurate GPS signal.
 64. The method of claim 62 comprising the furtherstep locating a field operator or equipment in relationship to utilityand other GIS locations utilizing the accurate GPS signal.
 65. Themethod of claim 63 comprising the further step of creating a PI Landbasefrom a GIS Landbase utilizing the accurate GPS signal.
 66. The method ofclaim 63 comprising the further step of creating a PI Facilities file byutilizing utility location data collected by utilizing the accurate GPSsignal.
 67. The method of claim 64 comprising the further step ofcreating an RTI display of relative location of operator or equipmentutilizing the accurate GPS signal.
 68. The method of claim 64 comprisingthe further step of providing input to support the functionality of anNTR module.
 69. The method of claim 62 comprising the further step ofcreating a PI Grid by combining a PI Landbase with a PI Facilities file.70. A method of rendering PI data in a standard GIS format utilizing anapplication written in Scaleable Vector Graphics.
 71. The method ofclaim 70 comprising the further step of integrating the application withRTI to render GIS information in a movable map.
 72. The method of claim70 comprising the further step of integrating the application with RTIand NTR to render a damage prevention user interface.
 73. A method offunctionally providing damage prevention information and calculationsand generating audible and visual indications that includes warningsregarding PI positional relationships between field personnel or fieldequipment and utility locations.